Work Related Fatalities in Ireland 2017

Work Related Fatalities in Ireland 2017

Data released by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) recorded 47 fatal workplace accidents for 2017 which is similar to the 2016 figures noting 46 fatalities.

Some key statistics included:

Agriculture: Agriculture has provided us with food and income for thousands of years and it is a vital part of our economy. However, the fatality rate in agriculture is far higher than any other economic sector with 24 deaths reported in 2017, 14 of which were elderly farmers. It is no surprise that both young and old are exceptionally vulnerable to death and injury on Irish farms, however, research suggests that elderly farmers are at a greater risk of being involved in a fatal work accident since similar accidents keep occurring each year. It is also important to highlight that the level of farm accidents has not decreased with last year marking this sector’s eighth consecutive year as the highest number of fatalities in the workplace in Ireland.

Construction and Transport: Construction and transport sectors had six fatalities each.

Across all sectors: Accidents involving vehicles accounted for 21 of all fatalities in 2017. Falls from a height (6) was the next most common cause.

Age Demographic: The majority of fatalities (28) involved people aged 18-65 and were male.

Counties most affected: Dublin, Cork, and Mayo recorded the highest number of workplace fatalities in 2017, with 6 fatalities each.

Children: There was only one child fatality in the workplace (agricultural sector).

Reported Accidents: Of the reported 47 fatalities, 18 were self-employed, 15 were employees, 7 were non-workers and the remaining 7 were family workers.

Employers both large and small must try to promote the health and safety of their employees and customers at all times. A combination of prevention and enforcement of safety activities will inevitably contribute to better outcomes in workplace environments across all sectors.

Business Insurance:

Murray & Spelman Ltd offer Irish businesses a comprehensive suite of products and services for every type of sector. In addition, with our providers, we offer advice on best health and safety practice in your workplace along with risk management and claims prevention.